Founded in 2000, Connect DMC is the only CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) in the Dominican Republic. Connect DMC is a well established full-house DMC, specialising solely in Incentives, Meetings and Event Organisation. Handling over 300 complex programmes a year, from 20 to 3000 delegates, we are renowned for offering the most personalised and hands-on service in the Dominican Republic.

CMP, CIS Certified, winner of IMEX Award, Boards Member of Site Florida & Caribbean Chapter, Connect DMC is a full-house DMC specialising solely in Incentives, Meetings and Events Organization. CONNECT – DMC handles over 300 complex programs a year from 20 to 3,000 pax and is renowned for offering the most personalized and hands-on service in the DR.

CONNECT – DMC is very proud to be the winner of the 2011 IMEX Commitment To Community Award for our dedication to improving the local Dominican communities while providing our clients an opportunity to incorporate a CSR project into their program.

With an entire team exclusively dedicated to your needs, CONNECT – DMC guarantees your program will be both successful and exciting. Famous for its knowhow, creativity, professionalism and local contacts, CONNECT – DMC understands and knows the value of the follow up that is required on a group operation. Our attention to the details is what will make the difference in the field.

A full range of spectacular themed events for welcome and farewell parties

Hospitality desk service staffed by our group coordinators who are local experts

Gift selections

Cell phone rentals

- And much more….

Destination

The Dominican Republic has become the Caribbean's largest tourist destination; the country's year-round golf courses are among the top attractions. In this mountainous land is located the Caribbean's highest mountain, Pico Duarte, as is Lake Enriquillo, the Caribbean's largest lake and lowest elevation. Quisqueya, as Dominicans often call their country, has an average temperature of 26 °C (78.8 °F) and great biological diversity.

“The DR’s beaches - wide, white sand and clear, clean water – are what thrills clients and make for awesome beach parties” says Carol Homer, president and incentive specialist for Carlson Wagonit Travel in Virginia. Along the East Coast, 21 miles of dazzling white sands make Punta Cana, Bavaro and Cap Cana some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Snorkeling, diving and deep sea fishing are favorite watersports. On the North Coast, Cabarete Beach is famous for world class windsurfing and kiteboarding. Divers can explore sunken shipwrecks off Boca Chica near Santo Domingo, while sophisticated relaxation seekers enjoy sipping Cuba Libres on the golden sands of French influenced Las Terrenas Beach on the unspoiled Northeast Coast.

The Dominican Republic is the second largest island in the Caribbean, with a 48,000 kilometre extension and not only the highest mountains in the Caribbean (Duarte Peak with 3,175 metres: over 10,000 feet above sea level), but also the lowest point in the Caribbean (Enriquillo Lake at -47 metres below sea level). Just imagine all the rivers, micro climates and exploring & eco-adventure opportunities you may find!

With meeting and convention facilities throughout the country, a modern telecommunications system, excellent air links and enough attractions to keep the most demanding travelers occupied; the Dominican Republic is quickly becoming a top destination for conferences and conventions.

DMC Programme Ideas

Day 1Arrivals into PUJ Airport.Welcome Reception.

Day 2Free day (or team building in the morning if applicable to programme).Safari hat in the room when guests return from dinner (teaser for the next day tour).Dinner at Restaurant.

Suggested Sightseeing

Saona Island with Altos de Chavon - 7:00am – 6:30pm

Min 15 Pax - Max 1,000 Pax

Accompanied by our professional guides, you will leave your hotel by air conditioned bus to reach the magnificent artist village of Altos de Chavon. Reconstitution of a medieval village of the XVIth century, it overlooks the Chavon River where some scenes of the famous movie “Apocalypse Now” were filmed.

You will enjoy free time to discover this beautiful village: main place, design school, shops and 5,000 seat amphitheatre.

Afterwards, we will walk down the 200 steps that separate us from the river where speed boats will take you to Saona Island. Saona evokes all the images of the exotic paradise we all have dreamt of: white sandy beaches, coconut palms, crystal clear turquoise waters; and above all the special Dominican touch that makes for an unforgettable day: smiles, rum and merengue.

You will enjoy a cocktail at your first stop, the amazing “Natural Pool” lagoon, rich in starfish. A barbecue lunch will be served buffet-style under the shade of the palm trees right on the superb deserted beach of Saona. What follows is up to you: lounging, beach games and entertainment, an introduction to merengue dancing or exploration of this undeveloped island.

For your return to the fishermen’s village of Bayahibe, you will board a catamaran for a memorable 1 hour 30 minute voyage complete with musical entertainment and UNLIMITED drinks.

This is undoubtedly the best recipe for a day of total relaxation and beautiful photo souvenirs. The return transfer will be broken up by a visit to a local shopping market with a large variety of souvenirs.

IncludedTransportation, guides, local rum, sodas, water, all taxes and a BBQ lunch on Saona Beach.

Additional Group OptionsOrganisation of a private cocktail party including a variety of tropical fruits and champagne on the beach, served by elegant white gloved waiters.

Dominican Cultural Adventure

You will experience a magnificent adventure in the midst of mountains, sea and valleys, discovering the breathtaking landscapes and the incredible hospitality of the friendly Dominican people.

Aboard all-terrain trucks, you will discover the wide expanses of sugarcane fields and their workers who still preserve some of their ancestral traditions. You will then visit a typical house and its tropical fruit orchards where you can have your fill of local products (vanilla, coffee, cocoa/natural chocolate and honey).

After passing through many picturesque and colourful villages, you will be taken to our mountain ranch for a typical Dominican lunch and time to explore at your leisure.

Guests will have the opportunity for a short horseback ride and we will also take time to learn about the cigar process and visit a small countryside school.

IncludedProfessional guide per truck, local beer, local rum, sodas, water, all taxes and full Dominican buffet lunch.Please note that pregnant women may not participate.

CTS Additional Group Options (Additional cost apply)

Organisation of a treasure hunt. The group would be divided into teams. Each team will be coached by its own guide and will have to answer questions and find clues to seek out the day’s reward.

The night prior to the activity, each participant will find in their room, a safari hat with the logo of your client or sponsor of this event

School donations – Renovate or rebuild a school or playground with your donations

Possibility of half day activity: Friday – Sunday only with minimum of 22 pax.

Saona Island with Altos de Chavon - 7:00am – 6:30pm

Mini 15 Pax - Max 1,000 Pax

Accompanied by our professional guides, you will leave your hotel by air conditioned bus to reach the magnificent artist village of Altos de Chavon. Reconstitution of a medieval village of the XVIth century, it overlooks the Chavon River, where some scenes of the famous movie “Apocalypse Now” were filmed.

You will enjoy free time to discover this beautiful village: main place, design school, shops and 5000 seat amphitheatre.

Animal Encounter

Option 1: Funtastic Programme – Min 2 pax Max 20 pax

You will be greeted by a dolphin and it will not take long before you will be able to experience the magic of a dolphin kiss! You will become just like a trainer while you interact with the dolphins. The trainer will guide you to swim with the dolphins in deeper water if you feel comfortable in doing so. Fun is the name of the game; however, you will be able to learn facts about dolphins as well as useful tips on conservation.

This programme includes 30 minutes of water time with the dolphin. Also included is a 15-minute tropical bird show and 15 minute Sea Lion show. You will enjoy 2½ total hours in the park to view the animals and take your photos! Programme available for swimmers of all levels.

Option 2: Dolphin Explorer Programme - Min 2 pax Max 12 pax

Are you ready for adventure? Prepare yourself to hold hands with the dolphin, and then it will take you for a journey that was once every kid’s dream. Learn how to cue and watch as the dolphin leaps right over you. Discover the "dolphin surf" as you glide on the ocean surface. Amaze yourself while discovering the power and speed together with the softness and the gentleness of your new friend.

This programme includes 30 minutes of water time with the dolphin. Also included is a 15-minute tropical bird show and 15 minute Sea Lion show. You will enjoy 2½ total hours in the park to view the animals and take your photos!

Are you ready for the ultimate animal adventure? Your afternoon starts with a visit to the Tiger exhibition, then off to the Tropical Bird exhibition. On your way to swim with the dolphin, stop by the sea lion and get your kiss! After swimming with the dolphin, board you own private catamaran so you can cruise along the beautiful coastline of the Cabeza de Toro Nature Reserve. Arrive at an abundant reef and snorkel with the ocean life. After snorkelling, travel to the Natural Pool where you can stand in waist-high water off the coastline; enjoy a refreshing beverage and relax or play water games. After relaxing for 45 minutes head back to shore where you will enjoy a Sea Lion show. What an afternoon!

Includes r/t transportation, entrance into the park, a variety of animal exhibitions, dolphin explorer swim and catamaran with local open bar & snacks.

Dominican Rally 4X4’s

Maximum 24 pax

Each air-conditioned 4x4 has a personal driver who will also be your tour guide and waiter throughout the day. Your guide has a wealth of information on the Dominican Republic and will share information with you throughout the day.

Explore the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic while traveling along dirt roads, over mountains, through rivers and through other 'off the beaten path' locations. First stop of the day, a beautiful beach for Dominican coffee and pastries. Then it’s time to drive through the mud, rivers and streams to reach the 75 year old church. Next it’s time to ride through the mountains until you reach the ranch were you will have cocktails, then a 15 minutes neck massage.

Next at the ranch, enjoy a gourmet Dominican feast. After lunch get some shopping done with vendors selling local products and crafts. Spend time visiting the crocodiles and iguanas. Then it’s time to move on to a typical Dominican house – meet the family and learn about the processes of coffee and cocoa. Final stop a beautiful beach with hammocks to relax and enjoy more cocktails.

IncludedTransportation, guide per vehicle, Dominican lunch with drinks including coco loco, pina colada, premium whisky, vodka, rum, sodas and water, 15 minute neck massage, Dominican coffee in the morning and after lunch, pastries in the morning and all taxes.

What to bring: swimsuit, camera, comfortable footwear, sun block and money for souvenirs.

Marine Encounter with Seafood Lunch (optional)

Min 2 Pax - Max 300 Pax – Private 70 pax

Around the underwater worlds…

Air conditioned buses transfer you to the private beach located at the little fishing village of Cabeza del Toro.

On board this large flat catamaran you will be provided with snorkelling equipment and all the security instructions by the Marinarium Park supervisors.

First stop will be the reef where you can see bright tropical fish. Then swim over the netted areas that hold nurse sharks and string rays. Take a photo with a string ray…what a rush!

Next, the boat will cruise the coastline until we reach the natural pool from where everyone can enjoy a refreshing cocktail served directly in the waist-high waters.

Seaside Seafood Restaurant – Surf & Turf From the natural pool, fishing boats will come directly and pick up the group to bring them to Bibiaqua, where they will dine, shop and enjoy an amazing view.

Included:Marine Encounter: transportation, snorkelling gear, all taxes, local beer, rum, sodas, water, fresh fruit and sandwiches.Lunch: Surf & Turf and local national open bar as described above.MARINE ENCOUNTER MUST BE A PRIVATISED TOUR TO INCLUDE LUNCH (70-200 pax)

AM Excursion without lunch ends at 12:30pm and returns to the resort.

Theme Party Ideas For Incentives

Imagine.. with a unique setting, underground millenary caves, with a functional design, that allow the creation of multiple spaces for entertainment, and an exclusive service; these all provide the tools to Imagine. The event will be set up at the multi-functional amphitheatre.

Description of EventDuring the cocktail reception, your guests will experience a warm ambiance, as they will be welcomed by 2 senoritas dressed in tropical costumes and our Latin band, who will be playing for 1 hour. Cocktails will be given to guests when they enter the room.

As they walk into the room they will have the sensation of being in the middle of the ocean in a fantastic lounge just for them. The room will be lit up with blue waves giving an ocean feel. Right after the show starts the stage lights up in an orange, pink, red and green light.

Cocktails will be served in the main entrance of the cave.Dinner will be set up in the amphitheatreDuration of the event: From 07:00 p.m. til 11:00 p.m. – 4 hours.

Featuring Afro Caribbean rhythms in a profusion of movement, music, sensuality and colour. In an ambiance of slender palm trees and spectacular flowers, 18 dancers and 2 renowned local singers will infuse you with the magic and flavours of our tropical roots. 45 minutes of music, rhythm, dance, colour and happiness will complete your day.

Set up directly on the beach of the hotel or in one of its conference rooms.Duration of the event: 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM – 4 hours

Set Up – Recommended8 pax round tables (provided by the hotel)Table set up according to your needs

Decoration and Set Up By Connect Travel Services – Recommended3 typical wooden Dominican houses3 typical flee market stands with local fruits, vegetables and “vendors”1 typically dressed “Senora” at the entrance with a basket of flowers to distribute one to each lady1 typically dressed “Senor” at the entrance to distribute one cigar to each gentleman

A/V and Set Up By Connect Travel Services 16x16x5 stage + decorLights structure and cover on the stage24 par lights with colour15 par lights for the houses and general set upSound system for the band and/or DJ

Entertainment By Connect Travel Services – SuggestedFull Circus show with 14 performers45 Minutes of dancers, jugglers, a magician and a mime at cocktail2 x 10 minute shows during dinner30 minute full show after desertDJ international music for dancing after show

Set Up – SuggestedInternational Circus and White Lounge Décor8 pax round tables (provided by the hotel)Tablecloths and chair covers

Decors and Furniture By Connect Travel Services – White Evening2 white pergolas 4 x 4 and + décor and back lights1 white pergola 6 x 6 and + décor and back lights3 small raiser stages 1’ for the 3 pergolasWhite tulle for decoration1 lounge corner set up on a 1’ raiser stage4 white sofas and 10 ottomans, coloured cushions8 white tables and 16 chairs8 flower centrepieces with lights inside2 white bar with back light20 white panels to be placed behind bars and pergolas2 truss structure with a par light on the back

Hard Rock Resort & Casino Punta CanaThe 65,000 square feet of flexible meeting space at HR definitely answers all your meeting needs. The Grand Moon Ballroom occupies an area of 37,500 square feet, where 2,800 attendees can be comfortably seated. A smaller Orion Ballroom with 19,600 square feet of function space, can seat parties of up to 1,320 in a spectacular setting of 30-foot ceilings. For activities designed for a reduced number of participants, additional space can be found in the Omega ballroom with 7 breakouts or the Venus ballroom, which can accommodate up to 400 guests theatre style. A spacious Board Room with 1,750 square feet complements these facilities to create the most attractive and convenient environment for your attendees.

Paradisus Punta Cana Resort is ideal for meeting, convention, and leisure groups. Group and convention programmes include: private events coordination in any area at the hotel, theme parties, coffee breaks, dinners and banquets, sports activities coordination and more.

Melia Caribe TropicalFor corporate business events and conventions, Melia Caribe Tropical is the place to do business in the Dominican Republic. We offer over 12,000 square feet of convention space with a capacity for up to 1,000 attendees. We also provide a business centre, wireless high-speed Internet access and all the tools necessary to make your corporate business events in the Dominican Republic a successful one.

Casa de Campo – La RomanaCasa de Campo’s 7,000-acre tropical playground is the ideal site for incentives, conferences, tournaments and special occasions.

For meetings, the two Conference Centres are perfect for gatherings of all shapes and sizes, with flexible space, a business centre, award-winning staff, and wireless internet service. Not only will a stay at Casa de Campo exceed your expectations, but meetings in the Dominican Republic are also tax deductible as in the US! Magical events provide the final touch, and creative themed events may be held almost anywhere, such as the Grecian Amphitheater, courtyards and fountains of Altos de Chavon, La Palapa Showroom, the Equestrian Centre or Minitas Beach...our venues are as limitless as your imagination. From banquets and sports activities, to catering and themed events, we do it all and in world-class style!

With such diverse capabilities, it should come as no surprise that Casa de Campo is a world-class award-winning group destination. Each year, Casa de Campo receives countless industry accolades for its excellence in meeting services, conference centres, quality dining, atmosphere and its unparalleled recreational facilities.

A Few Extra Touches

Green Adventure- Min 15 pax

You will be picked up at the hotel lobby by comfortable SUVs from where your green adventure journey will begin. Starting with the first of the Dominican Republic’s Zip Line Tour, constructed by one of the most experienced Costa Rican Canopy Tour builders. The exhilarating adventure takes you flying across the magnificent Anamuya Pond. Your guides will show you the way as you unlock the secrets of the Taino Anamuya Mountains. Your tour consists of 11 platforms and 10 Zip Lines stretched across the length of the mountain range throughout 1 mile (approx. 2 hours). After the Zip Line Adventure you will stop at Maria’s House where you will be able to witness how Dominican’s produce their fruit, coffee and cocoa etc. This is a great experience of the culture and features the best part - sampling!

Then back in the SUVs, you will discover the Dominican countryside and its picturesque villages in an entirely different way. Drive these amazing buggies over deserted beaches and back roads lined with vast expanses of palm and coconut trees (approx 1 ½ hours).

After the buggies you will go to Playa Blanca Beach for lunch followed by the Segways Ecotouristic Tour, ending a green-friendly day with a sunset cocktail.

Located directly on the Caribbean Sea, this tropical setting serves fresh local seafood, grilled meats and cocktails for lunch.

After lunch enjoy Punta Cana’s newest eco-friendly activity. Segway is 100% electric power and extremely easy to ride. Segway enables you to glide along silently and effortlessly leaving you free to admire the local scenery. Have great fun along the nature trail alongside the pristine beaches of Punta Cana and even ride on the sand. Bring your swimsuit to enjoy time in crystal-clear pools and on a private beach.

Sea Encounter

The following teambuilding programme excursion is used for the morning and the afternoon schedule:

Teambuilding activity 1: During the swim in the marine park there will be a hunt for coloured rocks. Each team has to find the most rocks of their team's colour in 15 minutes and put them in the kayak. The team who brings the first rock back gets 7 bonus points and all other rocks are worth 4 points.

Return to the boat and serving of sandwiches and drinks (alcoholic drinks only after the snorkelling.)

Preparation of the cocktail 'COCO LOCO' to learn a little Spanish

Teambuilding activity 2: Pick a card! Once everyone has picked a card, you explain to them that this is a luck game. If you have a shark it is worth 1 point and if you have a ray it is worth 3 points.

Teambuilding activity 3: The boat will stop in the natural swimming pool. Participants will take part in a relay race in the natural swimming pool. Each participant will have two life belts attached around their waist. Half of the team lines up on one side and half of the team on the other. They will race and the team that finishes first will have 9 points, the team that finishes second will receive 6 points; lastly the team that finishes third will receive 4 points.

Swim in the natural swimming pool of Bávaro with drinks served in the water.

Serving of coffee and cookies on boat; and cruise back to starting point

Presentation of the ranking of the teams and prizes

Merengue / follow the leader dances.

Cooking in Capcana Experience

Participants will have the opportunity to receive cooking tuition from a famous Dominican Chef with many years of experience and also with a degree in culinary arts obtained at Johnson & Wales University, Miami FL. Participants will be transferred to a beautiful and exclusive restaurant located in the Cap Cana Marina, where the activity will be held. The restaurant specialises in Mediterranean food.

Please find below 2 options for culinary experiences, however only one can be done at a time.

Inside Restaurant – Option 1- Minimum: 10 pax/ Maximum: 15 pax Chef will prepare and explain each plate. Each guest will have the opportunity to participate and interact with the preparation of the meals. After the preparation and cooking is complete, the participants will enjoy a buffet style lunch while sipping a glass of wine.

Outside – Option 2 – BBQ - Minimum: 25 pax/ Maximum: 30 paxChef will prepare and explain each plate. Each guest will have the opportunity to participate and interact with the preparation of the meals. We will have a BBQ on the beach. Instructions will be given by the chef on the different meat and fish cuts; and the grilling process. After the preparation and cooking is complete, the participants will enjoy a buffet style lunch while sipping a glass of wine.

Humanitarian Mission – Assist Communities and Schools

Your Mission, is that it is possible to make a difference in the world!

An unforgettable and unique teambuilding workshop. The teams will reconstruct humble houses, public schools and improve communities in only 5 hours; with materials, team expert support and tools. Experience of highly emotional impact. Establishes a strong moral commitment and a powerful bond based in compassion, humility and tolerance during this workshop.

Humanitarian aidIn the central area of the district or the community, the participants will find an assembly with tools required for each process. There will be graphic presence of the company with banners and logos. The most important representatives of the community will be present; neighbors and personalities, professors, etc.

Tools and PropsEach team will receive a set of tools that will be related to the characteristics of the assigned job.Paint / Brushes / Broom / Buckets / Garbage Cans / Shovels / Rakes / Masks / Gloves / Safety Glasses / Trees for planting

Team OrganizationThe participants will be identified with coloured bandanas and regrouped by specific task and the colour for each team.

LogisticsWe evaluate potential houses; we investigate merits of the beneficiary family and anticipate pre-forms that guarantee a worthy execution. We look forward to security aspects, hygiene, public exhibition and relations with the community. The participants will not know the characteristics of the workshop and will receive a video message from the President of the Company from the different community locations with hints of their Mission. They will face a challenge; with time, limited resources and an inevitable commitment. A great project!

The programme starts with several introspection exercises - the surprise arrival of the selected family when concluding the project of a brief and touching video that reflects the family’s life conditions. They will discover by direct experience the competitions, values and attitudes that characterize a highly effective team.

The experience of teamwork will keep everyone focused on the objective.